This rectangular piece of embroidery is a mirror cover used to hide the mirror’s reflective surface. The main decorative motif is a bright orange vase with a red flower on the centre. It is filled with stalks of flowers with petals in shades of red and their leaves in a multitude of bright colours. There is also a butterfly with wings in bright pink and contrasting bold yellow strokes. Butterflies are symbols of joy, beauty and romance. When depicted together with flowers, they represent happiness in a marriage. As such, this cover could be used in the wedding chamber. There is a border designed with floral motifs and at the bottom length of the piece are colourful beaded diamond shapes and tassels in bright colours of blue, red and yellow. The decorative motifs are largely done using silk thread embroidery and outlined with gold thread. The covering of mirrors is based upon a traditional Chinese superstition that the mirror could be invaded by unwelcome evil spirits lurking around the house.
